Daijiworld Media Network - Europe

Europe, Oct 14: France were held to a 2-2 draw by Iceland in 2026 World Cup qualifying on Monday, while Germany and Belgium secured crucial wins in their respective groups.

In Reykjavik, an injury-hit France were without captain Kylian Mbappe and Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele. Victor Palsson put Iceland ahead late in the first half, but Christopher Nkunku equalised after the hour mark. Jean-Philippe Mateta gave Les Bleus the lead with his first senior international goal, only for Kristian Hlynsson to restore parity soon after. France remain top of Group D, three points clear of Ukraine, with a decisive home clash against the same side next month.

Coach Didier Deschamps said, “We totally controlled the game. Iceland had two shots on target and scored two goals. But we have another point on the board and next month will be decisive.”

Germany continued their perfect run after an opening defeat, defeating Northern Ireland 1-0 in Belfast courtesy of a Nick Woltemade header. Julian Nagelsmann’s side top Group A with nine points, with a crucial showdown against Slovakia next month to decide the group winner.

Belgium are on the verge of qualifying from Group J after a 4-2 win over Wales in Cardiff. Kevin De Bruyne converted two penalties and Thomas Meunier and Leandro Trossard also scored. One more win from their remaining fixtures against Kazakhstan and Liechtenstein will secure top spot.

Elsewhere, Switzerland drew 0-0 in Slovenia, delaying their qualification hopes, while Sweden’s campaign continues to falter with only one point from three games. Wales must now chase second-placed North Macedonia following a 1-1 draw with Kazakhstan.

The European qualifiers will resume next month, with several groups heading towards decisive finales for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.